BUFFALO, N.Y. — SMART Local 71 Sheet Metal Workers Union showed off its new $1.3 million training facility at 24 Liberty Avenue Monday.

What You Need To Know

  • SMART Local 71 unveils new training facility
  • It will take apprentices for 5-year terms 
  • They will learn sheet metal trades from HVAC duct installation to metal roofing and siding
  • The project cost $1.3 million
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“I think the economy in general needs to have skilled people working,” said John Helak, former business manager of Sheet Metal Workers Local 71. “This is an avenue where you’re able to train the future workforce. My career went from just banging tin to being a union official. All of the training for that was provided.”

The training center will take apprentices for five-year programs and give them the skills they need to work in sheet metal from HVAC duct installation to metal siding and roofing work. There is no fee for the education, but apprentices must be chosen through an interview process.

“You see them come in as they’re green and very, very timid and by the end of the five years, once they complete the program, it’s very encouraging to see that the trade is going to survive,” said Helak.

There are currently 22 apprentices in their first year who just started in mid-July. 

Once an apprentice completes the program and becomes a journeyman, their skills can be utilized across the country.